. >> reporter: pope benedict became head of the catholic church succeeding pope john paul. some say he didn't go far enough. >> he wasn't ever as popular as the other popes and there are a lot of questions over how he handled the sex scandal in particular. >> reporter: there are several contenders but no clear front runner. >> who among this body has the qualifications, the characteristics, the spiritual gifts to fill that chair. >> reporter: pope benedict appointed half the cardinals that will choose his successor. the vatican hopes to have a new pope by easter at the end of the month. at the vatican, anna batangra. >> angelo scola, and cardinal mark polet, are in the running. >>> the pope's decision stunned the local catholic community. rochelle richie has reaction from catholics and the arch bishop. >> reporter: this news is very unexpected and many parisheners is very surprised. parishioner are stunned that pope benedict is stepping down. >> the only thing i'm thinking is he may be sick. >> reporter: it's been more than 600 years since the pope has resigned. this aftern